Spiral Medley Pasta Salad
A vibrant, flavorful pasta salad combining fresh vegetables, cheese, and pepperoni in a tangy Italian dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with chopped tomato, chopped cucumber, chopped green pepper, and sliced onion.
- Add the reduced-calorie Italian dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in McCormick Salad Supreme, cubed cheese, and cubed pepperoni or salami.
- Cover and refrigerate for several hours to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a colorful twist, consider adding bell peppers in various colors or olives for extra flavor. You can substitute regular Italian dressing with a vinaigrette for a lighter option. If you prefer, swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative or use turkey pepperoni instead of salami for a healthier choice. This salad is versatile and pairs well with Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Spiral Medley Pasta Salad makes a fantastic side dish for barbecues or picnics. It pairs well with grilled meats or can be served alongside dishes like P. J.'S Sausage Lasagna Wraps. For an extra crunch, consider adding some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. To enjoy the pasta salad later, simply give it a gentle stir before serving; no need to reheat, as it's delicious cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiral Medley Pasta Salad contains roughly 235 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 718mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it a few hours or even the day before serving to allow the flavors to develop. Just be sure to store it in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
While spiral pasta is traditional, you can use any shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or farfalle. Just ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente so it holds up well in the salad.
Can I add more vegetables to this salad?
Yes, feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables! Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or even artichoke hearts would be great additions. Just remember to chop them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).